Their mantra is to “take refuge in adventure”. But it’s clear that Brianna Blackbird and Drew de Man know many degrees of adventure and have really thought about it deeply. This special life-outlook is reflected in their recent journey of immersion to Cochabamba, Bolivia, the release of their first full-length album which the duo describes as a “hunted and gathered collection”. And most significantly the birth of their son. Time for an audio postcard straight from the beautiful hills and valleys of Bolivia. And don’t miss our Drop-In Session at Portland Radio Project studios.
DROP-IN SESSION WEDNESDAY JUNE 10
Photo: Robert Parish
A sweet morning spent meeting back up with Drew and Bri, and meeting baby Lucien Henri for the first time. Bliss. We talked about the move to Bolivia, new album, and what is next. Don’t we all want to know.
Photo: Robert Parish
Photo: Robert Parish
Bri and Drew, the vagabond duo, were busy finishing and mastering the new album late last year while making plans for a Bolivia adventure. Favorite earthly belongings were being jettisoned and sold, friends came over to share music and food, and to walk away with the earthly treasures of the couple’s home. Then, jumping into a van across country for one last tour and right after New Year’s, it was off to Cochabamba. It only seems right to celebrate the official release of the album back in the Pacific Northwest. They describe the album as an opportunity to be “clearing yourself away from the noise of the human intellect and become more of an animal…doing what you’re being called to do”.
Why Bolivia? Less expensive, More affordable. A chance to get away from screens. But also to deeply taste and feel the culture. To perhaps become bilingual and to reground as artists, respecting themselves and anchor in their self worth as artists. Aurora is 6 and picked up the language just like children do. Little brother Lucien Henri arrived under an auspicious thunderstorm. And now, says Bri, it’s liberating to have the baby and get back to the business of “getting song mojo back”. Enjoy an audio postcard from Cochabamba they sent earlier this spring.
Ride the Adventure with Pretend Sweethearts
Each and every night is full of promise and wonderful collaborations and supporting roles on those many stages, by musicians who share in the same spirit and passion, and artistry.
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